Writing a short film script can feel like trying to squeeze a novel into a sticky note. Can you really fit a full character arc, plot structure, and emotional payoff into just 10 minutes of screen time?
In this episode, Zena answers the question: does the Hollywood Plot Map apply to short films, or is it overkill?
Her answer might surprise you—and give you permission to stop overthinking and start trusting your creative instincts.
What You’ll Learn:
- Which story elements are absolutely essential in a short film—and which ones you can let go.
- Why short films come with more creative freedom… and why that can make them even harder to get right.
- How to think about character transformation when you don’t have the luxury of 90 pages.
Want to ask Zena your own burning story questions?This episode is pulled directly from her exclusive Office Hours—a private, monthly Q&A available to anyone who has ever purchased a class.
If you're ready to deepen your craft and get personal feedback from Zena herself, check out her online courses and unlock lifetime access to Office Hours.
Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO
#amwriting #authorproblems #shortstory #screenplayformat #writingtips #writersconnection #christianscreenwriter
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
Dateline NBC
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On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!